Contradiction with Acts 7:48
This verse suggests that God does not dwell in manmade temples, contradicting the idea of establishing a sacred space with an altar as implied by the prohibition of groves near altars in Deuteronomy 16:21.
Acts 7:48: Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,
Contradiction with 1 Kings 6:18
Describes the use of cedar wood carved with gourds and open flowers in Solomon's temple, indicating a form of decoration near worship areas, contrary to Deuteronomy 16:21’s instruction against planting groves near altars.
1 Kings 6:18: And the cedar of the house within [was] carved with knops and open flowers: all [was] cedar; there was no stone seen. [knops: or, gourds] [open: Heb. openings of]
Contradiction with Isaiah 66:1
Declares that heaven is God’s throne and the earth is His footstool, emphasizing the insignificance of physical places of worship, which contradicts the specified physical setup of worship in Deuteronomy 16:21.
Isaiah 66:1: Thus saith the LORD, The heaven [is] my throne, and the earth [is] my footstool: where [is] the house that ye build unto me? and where [is] the place of my rest?
Contradiction with Jeremiah 7:4
Advises against trusting in deceptive words like "This is the temple of the Lord," challenging the emphasis on the physical aspects of worship spaces as discussed in Deuteronomy 16:21.
Jeremiah 7:4: Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, [are] these.
Paradox #1
The potential contradiction in Deuteronomy 16:21 could arise if the surrounding cultural or societal practices promote actions or beliefs that go against the instruction within this verse. For instance, if a society highly regards diverse religious symbols or practices, the directive could be seen as conflicting with the values of inclusivity or religious freedom. Essentially, the contradiction occurs when the command does not align with broader practices or beliefs that emphasize acceptance and diversity.